Veteran standing with his backpack at SJC.

Veteran Center

Reach your academic and personal goals with the help of San Juan College’s Veteran Center. We’ll connect you to veteran services and groups so you thrive in the SJC community.


Empowering Veterans to Achieve Their Goals

We’re honored to serve those who have served our country. SJC is and always will be a military-friendly school, and we strive to make SJC a welcoming and inclusive community for all active-duty personnel and veterans. That’s why the Veteran Center works tirelessly to support you, your family, and fellow veterans to succeed on campus.


Our staff, all of whom are veterans, will make your transition from military to civilian life as smooth as possible. Get guidance in navigating your benefits or connecting with other veterans on campus. Let us help you achieve your goals and make the most out of your college experience.

How to Use Veterans Affairs Benefits at SJC

Follow the steps below to access your U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits and further your education. Be sure to contact us if you have any questions.

Apply for VA Education Benefits

Fill out the form from the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs and apply for the GI Bill® and any other VA education benefits. Please note that it takes up to 30 days to receive a qualification response.

Apply for VA Education Benefits

Submit the SJC Veteran Student Form

By completing this online form, we can process and certify your courses with the VA. Be sure to have your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) ready to attach to the form.

Submit the SJC Veteran Student Form

Meet Your Advisor

Get ready to start or continue your SJC journey. Your advisor will ensure you stay on track and enroll in the courses you need to complete your program and meet all VA requirements.

Meet Your Advisor

Select the courses that fit your schedule and path toward graduation.

Register for Classes

Receive Confirmation

The VA will send you a notice confirming the certification of your classes.

 

Supporting Veterans From Day One

San Juan College is one of the nation’s top Military Friendly® Schools. See how we can support you on your educational journey.

Resources for Veterans and Veteran Families

Military In-State Tuition Rate Request

Access less-expensive in-state tuition rates immediately. You can use your GI Education Benefit Bill to pay the “resident” rate at SJC. Save money as you pursue your education.

Complete the Military Tuition Rate Application

Military Tuition Assistance

If you are on active duty or a reservist, you may be eligible for Federal Tuition Assistance (TA). Connect with your duty station’s Education Officer regarding access to TA funds. For more information, contact Lisa Nash at (505) 566-3258.

Email Lisa Nash

Scholarships for Veterans

New Mexico offers scholarships for resident undergraduate and graduate students who are certified Military War and Vietnam Veterans. They cover tuition, fees, and book expenses.

Learn More and Apply

Military Spouse and Family Benefits

We are committed to assisting veteran spouses and dependents with everything from class registration to accessing benefits. Learn more about aid opportunities and resources.

View Military Spouse and Family Benefits

Financial Aid

Did you know San Juan College awards more than $7 million in scholarships and financial aid each year? Find out how to help pay for college with our financial aid resources.

Explore Financial Aid Opportunities

Veteran Center FAQs

Find answers to common questions and concerns. Whether you need guidance on navigating your benefits or ensuring a successful academic experience, we’ve got you covered.

View FAQs

2024-2025 Military Friendly® School

San Juan College again earned the distinction as one of the nation’s top Military Friendly® Schools. The prestigious list of schools sets the standard for higher education in providing the best opportunities for veterans and their spouses.

As a Military Friendly® School, San Juan College Veteran Center provides veterans with transitional assistance to promote goal achievement through a quality educational experience necessary to become competitive, adaptable, and successful in an ever-changing civilian environment.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

Read About Our Distinction

New Mexico Department of Veterans Services

Gain help accessing state and federal VA benefits right on SJC’s campus. The New Mexico Department of Veterans Services (NMDVS) has a field office in our Veteran Center. The NMDVS office assists veterans and their families who live in San Juan, Rio Arriba, and McKinley counties with issues from property tax exemption/waivers to VA compensation. You do not need to be an SJC student to receive help.

Contact Robert Guinn at (505) 327-2861 and Robert.Guinn@dvs.nm.gov or Candice Pioche-Zunie at Candice.Pioche@dvs.nm.gov and (505) 916-4835.

The NMDVS provides help with the following:

  • Common federal benefits
  • State benefits
  • Education resources
  • Employment resources
  • Housing and homelessness prevention resources
  • Healthcare & behavioral health resources
  • Other resources
Two SJC Veterans dogs in attendance of the 2022 Stand Down event

Serving Veterans in Need

Every October, the Veteran Center assists with San Juan County Veteran Stand Down, which helps local veterans and community members facing homelessness. We help provide housing assistance, mental health services, and more. See how we support those who have served.

Exterior of the San Juan College James C. Henderson Fine Arts Center

Contact Us

veterans@cctv1718.com
Phone: (505) 566-3970
West Classroom Complex, Room 1715

M-F 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.